THE MINERAL HYDROZINCITE

Hydrozincite forms in the oxidation zones of zinc deposits as masses or crusts.
Crystals are rare, but can be found.
Hydrozincite may be present on many specimens, but is usually unnoticed or assumed to be some other more common mineral, such as calcite or aragonite.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Color is white or clear, some tinted pale colors possible.

Luster is vitreous or pearly to dull or earthy in massive specimens.

Transparency crystals are transparent to translucent.

Crystal System is monoclinic; 2/m

Crystal Habits include massive forms that can be layered, stalactitic, concretionary, fibrous, and encrusting.
Crystal are rare, but when found are usually thin, bladed and tapering to a point or
in radiating tufts of acicular crystals.